Over 65? Here is How You Can Improve Your Quality of Life
Being at the age of retirement doesn't mean that you have to retire from having a quality lifestyle. Many older Americans believe that, because they've gotten older, they need to relax and keep away from the exciting things in life that could result in injury. However, improving your quality of life doesn't have to mean doing activities like skydiving.
Simple changes in your life you can help reduce stress, increase your energy, and even help prevent declines in your brain's cognitive functioning. Here's how you can help to maintain a good quality lifestyle:
Stay active
Believe it or not, people are capable of competing in a variety of sports regardless of their age. Daniela Barnea, 73, is a three-time gold medalist and record-breaking swimmer and is just one of the youngest athletes in her competing age group. Physical activity in old age isn't something that needs to be horrifically strenuous. Even mild activity can help to improve blood flow, improve the immune system, and improve sleep quality.
Stay connected
It can be easy to feel isolated and lonely when you don't connect with your loved ones or community as much as you would like to. Instead of hiding away, encourage family members and friends to visit. Become involved in a group hobby or even volunteer at a local charity organization or community center. Even little touches of interaction every day can help to improve your mood.
Stay mobile
Nearly 6.8 million Americans aid their mobility with assistive devices such as walkers, walking sticks, and canes. Ask a medical professional which type of assistive device may work best for you depending on your needs. And then get excited about your cane.
Having to use an assistive device doesn't have to feel like a loss of ability to move on your own. Instead, look at it as gaining a new accessory. Canes can be especially elegant and comes in a variety of woods such as a blackthorn walking stick or mahogany cane. Decorative canes are also available in a variety of handle designs.
By making small changes in your regular day-to-day activities, you can help to improve your quality of life and feel good about yourself. You don't have to be a superhero in order to feel like one.